GRETNA – A New Orleans man is suing a Gretna store for injuries he claims to have received when an employee accused him of stealing cigars and attempted to restrain him.

Marlon Hawkins filed suit against Franklin Discount Market and its insurer in the 24th Judicial District Court on Oct. 19. Hawkins claims that on July 1, 2012 he was a patron at Franklin Discount Market located at 1000 Franklin St. in Gretna when he was assaulted by a store employee. The plaintiff alleges that the employee falsely accused him of stealing cigars from the store.

The defendant is accused of failing to provide adequate training to their employees.

Damages in an amount less than $50,000 is sought for physical pain and suffering, mental pain and suffering, lost wages, medical expenses and permanent injury.